Midrats

Episode 758: Mid Month Free for All

Blockades, 11-month deployments, the Vietnam War, shipbuilding plans, and some love for our friends from The Philippines…a full plate for a Midrats Free for All.SummaryThis episode covers the recent return of the USS Gerald Ford after a 326-day deployment, the significance of naval operations, shipbuilding plans, and geopolitical considerations in the Indo-Pacific region. The hosts analyze naval readiness, technological advancements, and strategic challenges facing the US Navy.Show LinksFORD Carrier Strike Group receives Presidential Unit Citation.USS Mahan (DDG-72) returns from deploymentUSS Midway (CV-41) off Vietnam 1973Easter Offensive of 1972Hong Kong’s Mary SooExecutive Orders:141921426514269Latest Shipbuilding PlanDecades-long requirement for a nuclear powered escortMobilize: How to Reboot the American Industrial Base and Stop World War III,by Shyam Sankar and Madeline HartEpisode 393: Building the right carrier; heavy, medium, or light with Tal ManvelBalikatan 2026China, the unwanted guestChapters00:00: Introduction and Overview of the USS Gerald Ford’s Deployment10:01: Lessons Learned from the USS Gerald Ford’s Deployment14:24: Historical Context of Carrier Deployments22:29: Life on Deployment: Experiences and Morale30:27: Current Naval Operations and Future Considerations33:02: The Ongoing Naval Operations in the Persian Gulf38:55: Challenges in Aircraft Carrier Deployment44:47: The Future of Shipbuilding and Naval Assets50:54: The Role of Nuclear Power in Modern Naval Warfare56:52: International Naval Cooperation and Exercises

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Episode 757: May Maritime Melee

May 400:59:53Tap to summarize

SummaryThis episode explores the strategic maritime operations off the Straits of Hormuz, the impact of economic sanctions on Iran, and the future of naval amphibious forces. Experts discuss the nuances of naval blockade effectiveness, the importance of leadership in amphibious ships, and the broader geopolitical implications.Show LinksDVIDS Hub - Defense Visual Information Distribution ServiceSecretary of the Treasury Bessent on Operation Economic FuryWilliam Toti, CAPT, USN (Ret.)USS Indianapolis and Captain McVeigh - Court Martial Records Story of the USS Indianapolis, as told by Quint in the movie JawsVenezuelan oil output changesKarim Sadjadpour’s overview of economic impact of embargoSWOs take the amphibs backMidrats, Episode 712: Condition of the Navy’s Amphibious Fleet And Its Impacts on Marines: the View from GAONavy’s MQ-25A StingrayChapters00:00: Introduction to Maritime Topics01:58: The Blockade in the Straits of Hormuz06:47: Understanding the Impact of Blockades09:56: Economic Pressure on Iran12:57: The Role of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps18:01: Challenges of Regime Change in Iran24:00: Lessons from Iraq and Venezuela31:26: Naval Readiness and Command Changes34:54: Navigating Command Structures in the Navy39:00: The Role of Surface Warfare Officers42:03: Career Pathways in Amphibious Warfare45:47: The Future of Amphibious Forces53:02: Leadership Changes in the Navy\01:00:04: Foreign Ship Designs and Naval Strategy

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Episode 756: Latin American Policy, with Dr. Colin Dueck

Apr 2600:54:35Tap to summarize

SummaryThis episode features Dr. Colin Dueck, with Mark and Sal, discussing the historical and strategic importance of U.S. policy towards Latin America, the evolution of the Monroe Doctrine, and current challenges and opportunities in the hemisphere. Discussion is centered on how U.S. foreign policy can shape the future of the region amid great power competition.Show LinksWhy the Monroe Doctrine Still Matters, Colin DueckDr. Colin Dueck’s AEI pageChina’s Growing Influence in Latin America, Council on Foreign RelationsBolivarian Alliance for the Peoples of Our AmericaThe band The Minutemen circa 1985Chapters00:00: Introduction to U.S. Policy in Latin America03:08: Historical Context of U.S. Influence06:10: The Monroe Doctrine and Its Evolution08:49: Cold War Dynamics in Latin America11:30: Post-Cold War Attitudes and Challenges14:37: Recent Political Shifts in Latin America17:22: The Rise of Conservative Governments19:53: Crime and Governance in Latin America23:02: Future Implications for U.S.-Latin America Relations28:33: Revitalizing Latin America: Opportunities and Challenges29:26: Political Dynamics in Latin America: A Regional Overview36:00: Energy Resources: The Key to Economic Development37:51: China’s Influence in Latin America: A Double-Edged Sword47:03: Strategic U.S. Engagement: Priorities for the FutureDr. Colin Dueck is a nonresident senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, where he is focusing on the interconnection between US national security strategies and party politics, conservative ideas, and presidential leadership. He is also a professor in the Schar School of Policy and Government at George Mason University, where he is the faculty adviser for the Alexander Hamilton Society. A senior nonresident fellow at the Foreign Policy Research Institute, he has also served as a foreign policy adviser on several Republican presidential campaigns.Dr. Dueck is the author of three books on American foreign and national security policies: The Obama Doctrine: American Grand Strategy Today (Oxford University Press, 2015), Hard Line: The Republican Party and US Foreign Policy Since World War II (Princeton University Press, 2010), and Reluctant Crusaders: Power, Culture, and Change in American Grand Strategy (Princeton University Press, 2006). He has testified before Congress and has been published in academic journals and the popular press. These include International Security, Orbis, Political Science Quarterly, the Review of International Studies, Security Studies, World Policy Journal, The New York Times, Foreign Affairs, RealClearPolitics, and National Review.A Rhodes scholar, Dr. Dueck has a PhD in politics from Princeton University and an MPhil in international relations from Oxford University. He was also awarded a John M. Olin Postdoctoral Fellowship in national security studies by Harvard University. His earlier degrees in history were obtained from the University of Saskatchewan.

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Episode 755: Mid-April Free for All

Apr 2001:02:45Tap to summarize

SummaryThis episode features a lively free-for-all discussion covering recent naval operations, geopolitical tensions, naval maintenance issues, and international defense collaborations. The hosts share insights on maritime security, shipbuilding, and the strategic importance of alliances in the Indo-Pacific region.Key TopicsNaval operations in the Strait of HormuzUS Navy maintenance and readiness issuesInternational defense collaborations in the Indo-PacificNo one in the Navy has ever been hungry underwayByron Audler: a good yardbirdShow LinksCharge of the Love Boat BrigadeMogami Class FrigateNew Fuel Storage Location in the Southern PhilippinesUSA vs. China GDP Gap GrowsUSS Boise (SSN 764) 2015 Change of CommandChapters00:00: Introduction02:19: Recent Strait of Hormuz Activity07:26: US Navy Intercepts Iranian Ship in Gulf of Oman11:47: Maintenance Challenges16:58: USS Boise Maintenance and Accountability21:40: Naval Readiness and Fleet Sustainability29:46: Japan-Australia Defense Cooperation and Shipbuilding38:55: Pacific Region Security and Naval Assets45:24: China’s Demographics and Economic Outlook47:26: NASA Moon Mission and Space Exploration53:14: US-Philippines Relations and Strategic Partnerships58:41: Naval Food and Morale Myths59:57: Remembering Byron Audler

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Episode 754: European Navies' Lessons, with Alessio Patalano

Apr 1301:04:05Tap to summarize

The last four years’ conflicts from the Strait of Hormuz through the Red Sea to the Black Sea have presented a raft of lessons to the navies of Europe. How are they positioned to address the lessons, and what moves are already taking place?Returning to the Midrats Podcast to discuss this and related topics is Alessio Patalano.Alessio is a Professor of War and Strategy in East Asia and senior fellow at the Center for Statecraft and National Security at King’s College London, where he specializes in maritime strategic issues.SummaryIn this episode, Alessio Politano, Mark, and Sal engage in a deep discussion on the evolving landscape of naval security, strategic innovation, and the importance of historical and contemporary insights in shaping maritime defense policies. Main topics include:The significance of maritime history and its influence on current naval strategiesChallenges facing the UK Royal Navy and European navies amid funding and technological gapsModern threats in the Red Sea, Persian Gulf, and beyond, including missile and drone warfareInteroperability and technological advancements in NATO naval forcesThe strategic importance of autonomous systems and undersea infrastructure resilienceTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction and overview of current naval strategic challenges02:11 - Major recent regional conflicts and their global implications03:09 - Mritime strategy and how history informs modern security04:48 - The importance of understanding maritime history in policy making05:45 - Lessons from past empires and their relevance today07:36 - Strategic literacy among policymakers and military leaders08:49 - The impact of natural disasters and supply chain disruptions (e.g., Japan 2011)10:28 - Europe’s response to emerging naval threats and fleet modernization efforts11:51 - The role of anti-access and area denial (A2/AD) systems in modern warfare13:23 - Challenges faced by European navies in resource allocation and modernization14:48 - The Red Sea operations: European and NATO approaches to maritime security17:01 - Lessons learned from Ukraine and how they influence fleet development18:24 - The state of the Royal Navy’s readiness and funding issues19:48 - Upgrades and challenges regarding naval guns and missile defense systems20:45 - British Navy’s current strategic considerations and historical perspective22:23 - Political and financial factors impacting UK naval capabilities23:13 - The importance of strategic investments and capability development26:33 - The role of autonomous systems and unmanned vessels in future naval missions33:24 - Regional missile threats, focusing on Iran and Chinese developments37:18 - Europe’s plans for missile defense and cooperation with the U.S.44:36 - The significance of interoperability and joint exercises50:07 - Building resilience through technology, autonomy, and international collaboration55:09 - Critical infrastructure protection in the Baltic and North Sea62:57 - Future trajectories for European and Asian navies63:13 - Alessio’s upcoming projects and publicationsResources & Links:Books by Alessio PatalanoThe Sun Also Rises — by Ernest HemingwayFleet Tactics and Naval Operations, Third Edition — by Wayne Hughes:Centre for Statecraft and National Security at King’s College LondonBooks by Sam J. TangrediProject BeehiveRussia probing of the UK seabed resourcesNATO’s Baltic Sentry

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Episode 753: The Case for Pacific Optimism, with Blake Herzinger

Mar 3000:56:26Tap to summarize

Having trouble keeping up with the world around you? Head swirling with too much?You’re not alone. Good news…we’ll get you all caught up and set right.Returning to the Midrats Podcast is Blake Herzinger.Blake Herzinger is Microsoft’s Defense and National Security Policy Lead for Asia. Previously, he led policy strategy and advocacy at Citi across North and South Asia and Australia, advised senior leaders on geopolitical and regulatory trends at Indo-Pacific Advisors, and held roles at Twitter and Booz Allen Hamilton focused on defense policy, risk, and market strategy. He has been affiliated with think tanks including the American Enterprise Institute and the US Studies Centre in Sydney. From 2008 to 2017, Blake served as an active-duty officer in the U.S. Navy as an intelligence officer; he continues to serve in the U.S. Navy Reserve. He holds an M.A. in Strategic Studies from the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (Nanyang Technological University, Singapore) and a B.A. in Political Science from Brigham Young University. He speaks English and Bulgarian. In this episode:The significance of Japan increasing its defense expenditure to 2% of GDP and regional implicationsJapan’s soft power growth through development aid and maritime security contributionsThe increasing security cooperation between Japan, Australia, South Korea, and regional partnersHow regional maritime choke points affect security and trade resilienceThe digital revolution in shipbuilding and defense modernization effortsThe strategic importance of AUKUS and integrated supply chains for alliance strengthInsights into Singapore’s strategic posture and its partnerships in Southeast AsiaChallenges in defense procurement, cyber security, and digital infrastructure resilienceThe shifting dynamics of global energy supply and regional economic interestsTimestamps:00:00 - Welcome and introduction to the regional security context02:05 - Blake Herzinger’s role and current focus in Asia02:33 - Japan’s defense spending increase and regional security implications03:56 - Japan’s relationships with neighbors and regional development efforts04:50 - Japan’s soft power in Southeast Asia and maritime security contributions05:43 - Japan’s defense export initiatives and security cooperation07:43 - Personal experiences with Japan-U.S. naval exercises and alliance benefits08:13 - Japan’s assertiveness regarding Taiwan and regional security alignments08:46 - Building security networks among U.S. allies in the Indo-Pacific09:36 - The evolution of regional defense partnerships and trilateral arrangements10:01 - Historical context of Pacific conflicts and current opportunities for cooperation11:20 - The non-expansionist nature of current regional disputes and interests overlap12:15 - The growing economic and security ties around Southeast Asia13:26 - Japan’s defense uplift post-Shangri-La Dialogue and its regional impact14:01 - Ukraine’s influence on Japan and regional resilience initiatives15:04 - Cyber warfare, critical infrastructure, and future regional security challenges16:17 - Maritime choke points’ strategic importance and regional defense planning17:41 - U.S. and regional shipbuilding efforts, technological modernization18:48 - Evolving international relationships beyond traditional hubs20:01 - The growing defense collaborations across Asia and beyond21:35 - The importance of digital infrastructure and cyber security in defense22:53 - The challenge of modernizing shipbuilding through data and digital supply chains24:07 - Regional energy security, oil dependencies, and diversifying supplies26:21 - Australia’s energy policies and regional resilience strategies29:33 - The potential of nuclear energy and green energy initiatives in Asia31:18 - The strategic significance of AUKUS and regional perceptions36:54 - Modernizing defense logistics, munition production, and industrial cooperation38:21 - Overcoming bureaucratic hurdles in defense modernization and tech sharing40:30 - The ongoing efforts to evolve U.S. defense capabilities and partnership standards43:18 - Australian and Japanese shipbuilding cooperation and regional interoperability46:49 - Singapore’s strategic posture, partnerships, and regional stability efforts51:24 - Final thoughts: emerging issues and the importance of optimism in security54:12 - Blake’s recent publications, ongoing initiatives, and staying connectedResources & Links:Managing the Unbreakable Alliance: Agreements, Core Instruments, and Related Documents, by Blake HerzingerJapan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)As the US Navy just demonstrated, war at sea is global, John Andrews at ASPIMobilize: How to Reboot the American Industrial Base and Stop World War III, Shyam Sankar and Madeline Hart

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Episode 752: March NATSEC Free-for-All

Mar 2301:02:00Tap to summarize

After a series of great guests, the Midrats Podcast returns this week with the ever popular, “Free-for-All” format!It’s just Mark and me for the full hour as we discuss the latest developments from the Iranian conflict and elsewhere.Summary Sal and Mark discuss the meticulous planning behind military operations, the nuances of Iran’s strategic posture, and the broader implications for global security. Whether you’re a defense enthusiast or a security professional, this discussion sheds light on the complexity and professionalism inherent in modern military planning.In this episode:The myth of spontaneous military actions and the importance of detailed operational planningDecades of strategic intelligence and military preparation on IranThe layered process of deliberate planning, from high-level directives to tactical executionThe significance of coalition operations, particularly with Israel, and target division strategiesHow the U.S. and allies use phased operations to achieve specific objectives and measure successThe potential long-term impacts of current operations on Iran’s regime and regional stabilityThe role of misinformation and the importance of diversified information sources in understanding geopolitical eventsInsights on missile defense systems, threats in the Strait of Hormuz, and implications for Europe and AsiaReflections on Iranian capabilities, internal resistance, and future regional conflictsTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction and episode overview00:42 - The importance of deliberate military planning02:24 - Iran’s decades-long strategic preparation03:46 - Hierarchical planning from national directives to tactical execution05:05 - Goals of the recent operations and response to higher command06:57 - The reality of complex war plans, including branch and serial strategies08:15 - Collaboration with Israel and target sharing09:29 - Long-term planning and crisis adaptation10:55 - Asset management and tactical operational adjustments12:30 - The process of assessing mission success and defining end states15:39 - Comparative military experience of the U.S. and Israel17:02 - Duration and exit strategies for military operations18:17 - How success is measured and operational end points19:38 - Risks of mission creep and regime stability post-operation21:11 - Insights from military leadership on regime resilience22:58 - Impacts of leadership losses and succession in Iran24:44 - Potential for regime radicalization and future conflicts27:40 - Clarification on key geographic targets in the Strait of Hormuz30:01 - Ballistic missile threats to Europe and the U.S.33:07 - Iranian missile development and regional motivations36:15 - Defense systems in Europe and political considerations43:03 - China’s position regarding tanker escort and regional interests50:38 - Focus on geographic hotspots and missile threats near Iran52:29 - Israeli agility and sensor capabilities in targeting57:41 - Internal resistance within Iran and revolution prospects59:34 - Strategic patience and operational objectives60:10 - Teaser for next week’s guest: Blake HerzingerShow Links:Jim Mattis and Ryan Holiday | Full Episode 3.20.26 | Firing Line with Margaret Hoover | PBSThe Rise of the Punitive Expedition & the Repudiation of the Era of Errors, 02 March 2026Iran Strategy and Planning Resources

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Episode 751: Dmitry Gorenberg on Russia in year five of the war

Mar 1600:58:56Tap to summarize

Here we find ourselves approaching the fifth spring of the Russo-Ukrainian War of 2022.As the rest of the world’s geopolitical landscape changes dramatically, Russia’s “friend group” shrinks, and Ukraine’s friends grow weary and distracted, where is the war moving and where could we expect Russia to adjust for another year of conflict?Returning to Midrats again to discuss this and related issues is Dr. Dmitry Gorenburg, a Senior Research Scientist in the Strategy, Policy, Plans, and Programs division of CNA, where he has worked since 2000.Dr. Gorenburg is an associate at the Harvard University Davis Center for Russian and Eurasian Studies and previously served as Executive Director of the American Association of the Advancement of Slavic Studies (AAASS). His research interests include security issues in the former Soviet Union, Russian military reform, Russian foreign policy, and ethnic politics and identity. Dr. Gorenburg is author of Nationalism for the Masses: Minority Ethnic Mobilization in the Russian Federation (Cambridge University Press, 2003), and has been published in journals such as World Politics and Post-Soviet Affairs. He currently serves as editor of Problems of Post-Communism and was also editor of Russian Politics and Law from 2009 to 2016. Dr. Gorenburg received a B.A. in international relations from Princeton University and a Ph.D. in political science from Harvard University.SummaryIn this episode, we explore the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, marking its fifth spring, and analyze Russia’s current military strategy, technological dependencies, economic adjustments, and geopolitical efforts. Our expert guest, Dr. Dmitry Gorenberg, a senior research scientist at CNA, provides insights into Russia’s military tactics, technological challenges, and international alliances, painting a comprehensive picture of a pivotal moment in the conflict.Key Topics:The significance of the fifth spring of the Russia-Ukraine war and its implicationsThe role and impact of Starlink and Russian anti-satellite capabilitiesRussian military tactics: steady grinding, troop mobilization, and drone warfareThe Russian psyche regarding prolonged conflict and public sentimentThe influence of repression and government control on information disseminationEconomic resilience: sanctions, oil prices, and support from BRICS nationsRussia’s strategic partnerships: Venezuela, Iran, China, and othersThe role of sabotaging NATO and Western countries to weaken collective defenseInformation warfare: Russian propaganda, disinformation, and influence operationsTechnological dependencies: reliance on US-based satellite systems and Chinese componentsRussian military leadership: promotions, strategic updates, and future outlooksThe geopolitics of energy, with focus on shadow fleets and the Straits of HormuzTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction and overview of Russia’s fifth spring in the Ukraine conflict02:09 - The impact of cutting off Starlink and communication disruptions on the front lines04:20 - Russian troop mobilization strategies and tactics05:39 - External foreign fighters: North Koreans, North Africans, and recruitment trends08:33 - Russian public perception and cultural narrative about the war’s longevity09:29 - The influence of repression, propaganda, and societal attitudes in Russia12:46 - Government control of communications, internet censorship, and surveillance16:15 - Russia’s dependence on US satellite systems and Chinese technology17:36 - Russia’s technological gap: Satellites, GPS, and domestically developed systems19:10 - Economic impacts: sanctions, oil prices, and Russia’s financial resilience 21:25 - Russia’s efforts with BRICS and global network of allies to bypass sanctions23:24 - The role of Venezuela, Iran, and other countries in Russia’s geopolitical web27:06 - Russia’s sabotage operations against NATO and Western nations30:13 - Political influence campaigns, disinformation, and influence operations32:09 - Reflection on Cold War-era propaganda and current information strategies33:38 - The use of media, social platforms, and online influence in shaping narratives37:40 - Historical perspective on propaganda, public manipulation, and media control39:51 - Modern military technology, including missile attacks and Ukraine’s defense42:11 - The evolving missile landscape, targeting energy infrastructure and battlefield logistics44:46 - Russia’s advanced satellite capabilities: intercepting and maneuvering satellites46:47 - External support for Russia: North Korean, Iranian weapons, and China’s role48:00 - Chinese technology and components aiding Russia’s military industry50:17 - Russia’s long-term concerns about China’s rising dominance52:24 - Russia’s diplomatic and military support networks in Latin America and beyond54:00 - Shadow tanker ships, oil sanctions, and economic strategies related to energy55:47 - The geopolitical implications of oil sales, shadow fleets, and global markets57:06 - Russia’s support to Iran: targeting capabilities and strategic assistance58:21 - Ukraine’s recent military developments and regional connections60:59 - Ukraine’s defense industrial capacity and regional alliances62:24 - Russia’s outreach and support to Middle Eastern countries; strategic intentions64:39 - Future outlook: military promotions, strategic planning, and the war’s trajectoryResources & Links:CNA Russia StudiesStarlink by SpaceXRT (Russia Today)RAND Report on Russian SatellitesUS Sanctions and Oil Market DataRussia’s Shadow Fleet

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Episode 750: Springtime for the PRC with Dean Cheng

Mar 900:58:17Tap to summarize

The first quarter of 2026 still has three weeks to go, but the assumptions and friend group of the People’s Republic of China has changed dramatically.Recent changes in the assumptions concerning Venezuela, Iran, Japan, and other nations will impact the national security concerns of the West’s greatest challenger on the world stage.Returning to the Midrats Podcast today from 5-6 PM Eastern to discuss will be Dean Cheng.Dean is a Non-resident Senior Fellow, Potomac Institute for Policy Studies and Non-resident Fellow, George Washington University Space Policy Institute.He recently retired after 14 years with the Heritage Foundation, where he was a senior research fellow on Chinese political and security affairs, and wrote on various aspects of Chinese foreign and defense policy.Prior to joining the Heritage Foundation, he was a senior analyst with the China Studies Division (previously, Project Asia) at CNA from 2001-2009. Before joining CNA, he was a senior analyst with Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) from 1996-2001. From 1993-1995, he was an analyst with the US Congress’ Office of Technology Assessment in the International Security and Space Division, where he studied the Chinese defense industrial complex.He is the author of the book Cyber Dragon: Inside China’s Information Warfare and Cyber Operations (NY: Praeger Publishing, 2016), as well as a number of papers and book chapters examining various aspects of Chinese security affairs.Show LinksDean Cheng’s article on Chinese military purgesAn Army at Dawn, by Rick AtkinsonChina’s HQ‑9B Defense System Under ScrutinySummaryIn this episode, Dean Cheng discusses China’s strategic posture, military reforms, cyber capabilities, and the implications of recent global events on China’s long-term plans. We explore China’s economic outlook, military modernization, regional influence, and the impact of purges within the PLA.Chapters00:00: Introduction and Context of Global Tensions03:01: China’s Strategic Position and Five-Year Plan07:07: Defense Spending and Global Security Concerns10:05: China’s Vulnerabilities and Energy Security11:44: Military Purges and Leadership Control18:22: Military Readiness and Combat Experience23:27: Testing Chinese Military Equipment in Conflicts28:45: Global Arms Market and Strategic Alliances30:24: Military Culture and Learning from Underperformance32:57: Training and Realistic Combat Experience35:40: Cyber Warfare and Electronic Warfare Concerns38:05: Regional Conflicts and China’s Diplomatic Stance40:46: China’s Image and Political Warfare44:48: Shifts in Global Alliances and Economic Influence47:34: The Importance of Economic Engagement50:25: China’s Diplomatic Approach to Neighbors54:16: Cyber Threats and Infrastructure Vulnerabilities

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Episode 749: Operation Epic Fury Free for All

Mar 200:59:30Tap to summarize

Hard to think of a better time to have a Midrats Podcast Free-for-All.2026 continues to produce more content than we know what to do with, but we’ll give it our best.Show LinksCENTCOM’s Epic Fury Day-1 SummaryLUCAS attack droneIntifada Podcast: Hamas in the U.S.UK gives a nod for base useSal Mercogliano on the Strait of HormuzIsraeli bomb shelter dating appSummaryJoin Sal and Mark as they analyze the recent military operations, geopolitical implications, and strategic considerations surrounding Operation Epic Fury and the broader Middle East tensions. This episode offers in-depth insights into military assets, regional dynamics, and the future of Iran and its neighbors.Chapters00:00: Introduction02:04: Main Focus: Operation Epic Fury and Iran03:07: Details of US Military Assets Used in the Strike06:28: Targeting Command and Control Centers in Iran08:12: Iran’s Military Capabilities and Regional Impact09:38: Iranian Public Sentiment and Future Opportunities11:25: Support for Iranian People and Regime Dynamics13:46: Iranian Revolutionary Guard and Sleeper Cells16:52: Impact of Expatriates and International Support18:14: Challenges of Leadership and Control in Iran20:09: Strategic Goals and Limitations of the Operation22:02: Analysis of Military and Political Leadership Decisions25:24: Logistics, Risks, and Future Outlook28:43: Potential for Further Actions and Regional Stability31:17: European and Global Reactions to the Strike34:38: International Responses and NATO’s Role37:11: Iran’s Response and Proxy Activities41:54: Intelligence, Misinformation, and Media Challenges45:18: Implications for US and Allies’ Security49:25: Operational Successes and Future Risks54:31: Technological Innovations and Regional Impact55:57: Humor and Human Element in Military Operations01:00: Conclusion

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All episodes

Episode 758: Mid Month Free for All

Episode 757: May Maritime Melee

Episode 756: Latin American Policy, with Dr. Colin Dueck

Episode 755: Mid-April Free for All

Episode 754: European Navies' Lessons, with Alessio Patalano

Episode 753: The Case for Pacific Optimism, with Blake Herzinger

Episode 752: March NATSEC Free-for-All

Episode 751: Dmitry Gorenberg on Russia in year five of the war

Episode 750: Springtime for the PRC with Dean Cheng

Episode 749: Operation Epic Fury Free for All